Damian Williams, the United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, and Ricky J. Patel, the Acting Special Agent-in-Charge of the New York Field Office of the Department of Homeland Security (“HSI”), announced today the arrest of FABRICE TONTISABO, a/k/a “Fabrice Williams” for persuading, inducing, enticing and coercing two 14-year-old minors to engage in sexual activity. TONTISABO was arrested this morning and will be presented later today before U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert W. Lehrburger in Manhattan federal court.
U.S. Attorney Damian Williams said: “As alleged, Fabrice Tontisabo engaged in abhorrent sexual activities with two 14-year-old children. We will continue to use every law enforcement asset available to protect our children, and we will investigate, prosecute, and punish those who engage in their exploitation.”
Acting HSI Special Agent-in-Charge Ricky J. Patel said: “As alleged, Sidbewende Fabrice Tontisabo preyed upon the most vulnerable members of society, innocent children. Through its investigation, HSI New York’s Human Trafficking Task Force was able to arrest Tontisabo and put an end to his alleged abuse. Working with our local, state, and federal partners, HSI New York utilizes its unique authorities and resources to prevent these predators from harming innocent victims.”
According to the Complaint[1] filed on September 9, 2021 in Manhattan federal court and unsealed today:
Between at least on or about October 2020, up to and including at least on or about March 2021, TONTISABO persuaded a 14-year-old minor (“Minor Victim-1”) to meet him in person on multiple occasions to engage in sexual activities with TONTISABO in exchange for cash, alcohol, and marijuana.
In addition, between at least on or about October 2019, up to and including at least on or about January 2020, TONTISABO persuaded another 14-year-old minor (“Minor Victim-2”) to meet him in person on multiple occasions to engage in sexual activities with TONTISABO in exchange for cash, alcohol, and marijuana.
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TONTISABO, 33, of Brooklyn, New York, is charged with two counts of enticement of a minor, which each carry a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years in prison and a maximum sentence of life imprisonment. The statutory maximum sentence is prescribed by Congress and is provided here for informational purposes only, as any sentencing of the defendant will be determined by the judge.
Mr. Williams praised the efforts of HSI. He added that the investigation is ongoing.
The prosecution is being handled by the Office’s General Crimes Unit. Assistant United States Attorneys Camille Fletcher and Kevin Mead are in charge of the prosecution.
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